Rights group sues Nigeria's leader over corruption

The Associated Press

Posted:
07/01/2014 08:32:18 AM CDT

Updated:
07/01/2014 08:32:19 AM CDT

LAGOS, Nigeria (AP) — A rights group is suing Nigeria's president and attorney general for dropping corruption charges against the son of the former military dictator accused of helping to launder millions in stolen funds.

The government last month withdrew charges against Mohammad Abacha in a deal that saw $227 million looted by Gen. Sani Abacha and held in Liechtenstein returned to Nigeria. The money had been held up for years by Abacha family lawsuits.

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project said Tuesday it has filed suit arguing the constitution requires Nigeria's leaders to "ensure diligent and effective prosecution" of corruption suspects.

President Goodluck Jonathan is accused of pardoning other corrupt politicians despite promises to fight endemic corruption.

Mohammad Abacha is wanted in the United States for allegedly laundering $458 million frozen in February.